I’ve got a Song Hoot

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“Like the North Wind whistlin’ down the sky…
I’ve got a song, I’ve got a song”

Takes me back to cold mornings on the Albany River in northern Ontario as a wide-eyed teenager. Morning coffee ’round the fire was our comfort before exhilarating days on fast flowing water heading north. Inside me and busting out were tunes born of open skies. In those days – mostly Lightfoot, Dylan, James Taylor and Judy Collins. There was magic in singing and shouting down the wind as waves built around us. But I digress – without fiddling with yer phone – can you say who wrote that line and from what song? No socks this time but you would be humouring a guy sitting on the shores of a beaver pond wondering if anyone else dreams of cold north winds and a beckoning sky…Oh what the heck – I’ll throw your name in the old toque for a chance to win a Grey Owl voyageur paddle. But mind close now – ya gotta play fair and if you win, pick it up at our town shop some fine fair day.

Our New Friend

We lost our dog Charly this past spring – and it was so hard. But fate has sent us Goldie, nestling her way deeply into our hearts. Goldie didn’t have a good or easy life to start, but she’s here now – with days spent sleeping by the fire or searching for a snack and a hug. We are very very lucky…

Christmas Ideas

Peddler’s Hat On – Paddling Hat Off! A few things you may not know we have here at the Squall and we could still likely get ’em to you before the big day. We’re mostly an offline kind of shop happily employing local folks so please get in touch for pricing and details. A pulsing person will probably answer the phone:) 705-746-4936 or [email protected]

Gear Lab – Greenland Paddles, Rolling Floats, Gear Wraps, Deck Pods & more ~we have a very happy relationship with these folks, they make damn good stuff and back it up

Salus PFD’s ~Canadian made and tops in the industry

Immersion Research Drysuits, Sprayskirts, Paddling Jackets ~Check out IR – an inspiring outfit that cares a lot for their employees and their footprint

Splash Flash PFD Light~I’ve had one for years and she still burns brightly, is truly waterproof and makes me look like I know what I’m doing

Norwegian Kicksleds ~a frozen lake, a skiff of snow, and away you go, faster than jack the bear

Outdoor Gear & Clothing ~Thermals, Outwear, Tough & Smart Socks, Boots Galore and Maps to Get Lost By

Canoes, Kayaks, Sups

The dandiest gift that keeps on giving. Find out what we have and what’s coming at: https://www.whitesquall.com/kayak-canoe-sup/

Gift Certificates Faster Than a Speeding Kayak

Yessirreebobdangeorge – we can e-mail them right up to just before the big day. 705-746-4936 or [email protected] Squall Elves, sipping hot cocoa and whistling happy tunes are swinging from the light bulbs, waiting for the phone to ring so they can earn their keep. Just in case you’re wondering what’s possible? Imagine giving a gift cert for a wilderness first aid course – or a canoe – or a map – or a private kayak lesson or a boat rental or…how about just because?

Wilderness First Aid is BACK!

You asked, and we deliver – just like pizza. My pulse is racing just knowing Wilderness First Aid, Advanced WFA and Wilderness First Responder courses are coming this April. Final details are just being bandaged up as I write – but for now, if you’re keen – let us know as spaces are limited. [email protected]

Dust Off Your Paddle – The Franklin Challenge Returns

We’re aiming for the third weekend in June and yup, that famous go-round of the prettiest island on the Bay is not to be missed. More details to follow but just wanted to let you know we haven’t been lollygagging while the world spins and turns. She’s a tour kids, not a race – so get a gang together and you can congratulate yerself with a fresh fish Gillys meal afterwards!

Level 1 Sea Kayak Instructor

Please tell us soon if you want in as space is limited for this early season instructor course coming in the first couple of weeks in May – dates TBD. I’m pretty darn excited to say that Claire Henry and Kathleen McGill, along with moi – are teaming up and we are already starting to plan cause spring will come donchaknow. [email protected]

Private Coaching & Lesson Santa Special!

Now here’s a dandy gift certificate idea folks, but the special ends the night Santa flys! A morning kayak, canoe or SUP lesson on sheltered Cole Lake for one – $100 tax included. A $125 value and you can add a second paddler for $50. (equipment & smiles supplied) Just tell us what it’s for when you call or e-mail. 705-746-4936 or [email protected]

The Squall Lives on at Cole Lake

Kathy and I, thanks to Jan and Kathleen, are keeping the lights on – with a dip of the paddle to all of you for your support and encouragement. By appointment, you can arrange to come out most anytime to see boats and gear. We’ve turned the shop into a dedicated show-room – just wear your woolies cause we don’t try to heat her up. [email protected]

Tree of ice ~ off the Cole Lake Dock

We hope the fire burns brightly in your heart this winter. Tim, Kathy and the gang

Not into that? No sweat – just hit reply and say ‘nice try timbo’ and we’ll take you off our list with a parting wish for fair skies…